The low prices can be very appealing when you’re shopping for cheap bongs. However, it’s important to recognize that the lower cost often comes with significant trade-offs. Here are several reasons why opting for a less expensive bong might not be the best decision.

How Do Bongs Work?

To understand why cheap bongs are not always the best, you need to understand the workings of this device. Bongs, known by slang terms like bingers, billies, or bubblers, have been around for centuries. The name “bong” comes from the Thai word “baung,” a bamboo tube used for smoking. Today’s bongs are far more sophisticated but serve the same purpose: filtering and cooling smoke from your CBD concentrates.

A typical bong features a small bowl to hold your dried concentrate. Lighting this concentrate makes it combust, causing the water at the bottom of the bong to percolate (bubble) as you inhale. The smoke rises through the water, filtered, and cooled before reaching your mouth and lungs. Some bongs include ice catchers for additional cooling and multiple percolators for enhanced filtration.

Durability Concerns

Cheap bongs often have durability issues due to their construction from lower-quality materials like thin glass or inexpensive plastic. These materials are prone to breaking, even from minor impacts. High-quality bongs made from thicker, more robust glass (at least 4mm, often up to 9mm) can withstand drops and last much longer. Investing in a durable bong saves money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Extra Cleaning Required

Cheap bongs require more frequent and intensive cleaning. Inferior materials accumulate residue quickly, affecting the taste and quality of your smoke. High-quality bongs are designed with smoother surfaces and better materials that make cleaning easier and more effective. A clean bong is essential for maintaining optimal performance and avoiding health issues.

Portability Issues

The fragility of cheap bongs makes them less suitable for travel. While their affordability is appealing, they can break easily during transport. For those who enjoy smoking socially and need a portable bong, investing in a durable, travel-friendly option like a silicone bong is a wiser choice. Silicone bongs are resilient and can withstand the rigors of travel.

Health Risks

Cheap bongs can pose significant health risks. Many are made from materials like acrylic or plastic that release harmful chemicals when heated. These toxins can cause respiratory issues, severe headaches, and even cancer. High-quality bongs made from glass or ceramic do not release toxic substances when heated, providing a safer smoking experience. The water in the bong helps filter out harmful particles, but the effectiveness of this filtration depends on the quality of the materials used.

  • Can Cause Cancer: According to the Society of Plastics Industry (SPI), some plastics used in cheap bongs can release toxic chemicals when heated, increasing the risk of cancer.
  • Causes Respiratory Issues: Heating plastic can release chemicals that, when inhaled, cause respiratory problems and other health issues.

Low-Quality Hits

Cheap bongs often provide a lower-quality smoking experience due to poor design and inferior materials. They may lack features like percolators, diffusers, and ice catchers that enhance the smoothness and quality of each hit. This can result in harsh, unpleasant hits and a less enjoyable experience. Investing in a well-designed bong ensures smoother, more satisfying hits.

Lack of Visual Appeal

While functionality is crucial, the visual appeal of a bong also matters. Cheap bongs are typically basic in design, lacking the aesthetic appeal and craftsmanship of higher-end pieces. High-quality bongs come in various styles, shapes, and designs, allowing you to choose a piece that matches your personality and decor. A visually appealing bong can also serve as a stylish addition to your collection.

Poor Resale Value

Cheap bongs generally do not hold their value well. Should you decide to upgrade or sell your piece, you’ll find that a higher-quality bong retains more of its original value. Investing in a reputable, branded bong ensures better resale value, making it a smarter financial decision in the long term.

Basic Features

Cheap bongs are often too basic, lacking advanced features that enhance the smoking experience. They are typically designed with minimal functionality and do not offer the performance and customization options found in higher-end bongs. Pricier, high-quality bongs often include features like coil percolators, ice catchers, and multiple chambers that improve the quality of each hit and provide a more enjoyable experience.

Is It Advisable To Choose Cheap Bongs Or Not?

While the initial cost of cheap bongs is enticing, the drawbacks can outweigh the savings. Investing in a higher-quality bong not only ensures a better smoking experience but also offers greater durability, improved health safety, and long-term value. When it comes to bongs, spending a little extra can significantly enhance your enjoyment and satisfaction, making it a worthwhile investment.